RAMS ACQUIRE LB AYI FROM PATRIOTS
By ClanRam Writer - - -Howard Balzer

The Rams have acquired linebacker Kole Ayi from the New England Patriots for a future draft pick.

Ayi was one of the team's most consistent special teams players in the early stages of the 2001 season, but he was placed on waivers when coaches wanted to get some game action for defensive end Jonathan Brown.

The plan was to eventually put Ayi back on the roster after he was added to the practice squad, but the Giants spoiled those plans by signing Ayi to their roster. He was eventually released by the Giants and claimed on waivers by the Patriots, but finished the season on injured reserve because of an injury suffered in a game against the Rams.

The Rams also released undrafted free-agent running back Joe Hall.